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Conor Bradley basked through the passionate backing of the home crowd's love, while Trent Alexander-Arnold – the Scouser who moved on from Anfield – faced a harsh and negative reaction about his diminished standing.

Conor Bradley had been identified as Alexander-Arnold's heir apparent ever since the transfer was finalized to move on from the Reds to join Real Madrid, so once the fates paired these continental giants together in the Champions League, all was ready.

It proved a stark difference with the Northern Irish full-back emerged as the standout figure of a Liverpool display evoking memories of their championship form while Real Madrid were overwhelmed.

Alexander-Arnold, who started from the sidelines, throughout faced in no doubt how the supporters who previously chanted his former iconic role presently perceive him.

It was a day filled with persistent hostility directed towards the defender, from his mural near Anfield being vandalised displaying critical phrases prior to kickoff to the Anfield anger sparked by actions that supporters consider as disloyalty.

Conor Bradley intensified the rage and criticism aimed in Alexander-Arnold's direction through an outstanding performance that reduced the formidable Brazilian star to an observer, limited to dramatic actions – poor theatrics at that – confronting the youngster's physical dominance.

All his interventions received roaring approval, all his balls welcomed with crowd support, his name chanted passionately, both for his display and as a clear signal towards Trent that a new talent had emerged at the club, confirming he was now part of history.

Naturally, the defender, earned plaudits by the team's boss.

Bradley performed exceptionally, commented Slot. Competing with the Brazilian so many times one against one is not for everyone, yet he excelled.

Had the graffiti displayed on the defender's tribute hadn't alerted him of what was awaiting him, there was unmistakable evidence during his warm-up among the Spanish squad's backups ahead of the game, negative reactions filling the air, the critical response repeated when his name was read out.

Just as it seemed he would miss the complete hostility, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso sent him in as a second-half change as they tried to level the home team's advantage, rightfully earned by by Alex Mac Allister's header during the 61st minute.

Reception for the substitute proved brutal, plus sarcastic shouts following a poor delivery that floated without purpose beyond the boundary.

Alexander-Arnold's unhappy cameo occurred alongside the crowd referencing players who remained faithful amid transfer interest to depart Liverpool, specifically club legend Steven Gerrard, observing from the seats.

The evening belonged to Liverpool, Conor's moment – exactly the type of occasion the stadium loves amid the comeback of their past hero became extra fuel to turn up the volume.

The Reds, previously struggling after multiple losses prior to defeating Villa in their previous match, responded with a performance that was easily their best in recent months, a crucial indication regarding the level that enabled them secure the trophy.

Slot appreciated the response to successful results, saying: Winning matches proves more enjoyable than if you lose as a manager. Defeats consume your complete attention since you desperately need to improve the situation, but you also try to stay consistent and character amid victories.

Solely the performance of brilliant Real keeper Thibaut Courtois that threatened to stop Liverpool getting their deserved result, through an outstanding personal display that revived memories when he frustrated them during their defeat under Klopp the European showpiece at the Stade de France.

The Belgian made a string superb interventions, preventing goals from the midfielder and an amazing instinctive block against Van Dijk's aerial effort, before even he was powerless from Mac Allister's headed goal after the midfielder's delivery.

Liverpool's narrow victory margin does not touch the sides of total command from start to finish, this significant victory pushing them into sixth place in the Champions League table, a standing that will put them in the last 16 avoiding the requirement to a play-off if maintained.

The midfield duo dominated midfield, while Florian Wirtz provided some of the subtle touches during his German career. The forward remained dangerous throughout the match.

The team, differing from typical recent performances, extremely solid at the back as Kylian Mbappe was marginalised, producing a poor, mistake-filled performance. Vinicius was outperformed by Conor well before full-time.

Although representing a tough occasion for Alexander-Arnold, the situation proved similarly challenging for Jude Bellingham, given the Liverpool setting to showcase once more his ability ahead of the national team manager announces his team to face Serbia and Albania following his previous omission.

He provided one moment of danger in the first half making the goalkeeper save to save with his legs, yet remained largely invisible {as Real failed to establish|